Energy Exchange of Southern Africa (EXSA) has partnered with Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS) on SlimSun Too Solar IPP, a landmark solar project set to deliver clean, affordable energy into South Africa’s grid.
The 5600 kWp solar farm, spanning 10 hectares, will generate approximately 12 million kWh of clean energy annually. SPS serves as both the Independent Power Producer (IPP) and Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, with Investec providing financial backing for the R87 million project. EXSA entered into a long-term agreement with SPS, with a 10-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Major project milestones achieved
Phase 1 is in the final commissioning stage, following approval of the Eskom grid connection. RETEC testing is in progress, and the plant will soon begin supplying renewable power directly through EXSA, giving South African businesses greater access to clean energy. An additional phase has been contracted by the parties to double SlimSun Too's capacity to 10 MW, with financial close reached and construction scheduled to commence in the coming months, further accelerating South Africa's energy transition.
Together, these phases mark a significant step towards meeting South Africa’s growing demand for affordable, sustainable power.
"This project showcases our dedication to advancing South Africa's Just Energy Transition. By partnering with SPS, we're not only expanding our renewable energy capacity but also contributing to the country's economic growth and sustainable development," says Wayne Cowie, CEO of EXSA.
The project highlights the growing importance of solar energy in South Africa's energy mix. As the country continues to transition towards cleaner energy sources, partnerships like this play a vital role in driving progress.
"Collaborating with EXSA enables us to develop our solar projects in South Africa further. We're excited about the potential for growth and the positive impact this project will have on the environment and local economy," says François van Themaat, the co-founder of SPS.
As EXSA grows its renewable energy portfolio, this project demonstrates how partnerships can unlock innovative, cost-effective solutions in a rapidly evolving energy market.
EXSA simplifies and facilitates renewable energy wheeling, allowing businesses to receive electricity from the most diversified generation sites across the country via the Eskom national grid. This model aggregates and blends energy from multiple sources, ensuring a stable, cost-effective, and lower-risk supply for customers. This contributes to long-term energy security by increasing national generation capacity.
With extensive expertise across the energy value chain, EXSA’s team is dedicated to transforming businesses, economies, and communities through sustainable energy solutions and the company’s in-depth understanding of the processes and mechanics of energy wheeling.
The business is proudly backed by shareholders that share the vision of EXSA, including one of South Africa’s trusted long-term investment partners, Remgro Limited, and South Africa’s leading corporate and investment bank, Rand Merchant Bank.
EXSA is driving South Africa towards a more competitive, efficient, and renewable energy future.
For more information about EXSA and its renewable energy projects, visit www.exsa.io.